Living with diabetes comes with many challenges, both physical and emotional. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed, frustrated, or even exhausted at times. You are not alone, and support is available to help you through these moments.
Just like physical health, mental and emotional well-being can fluctuate over time. Life’s ups and downs, combined with the daily demands of managing diabetes, can make things feel overwhelming. It’s important to know when you’re struggling, how to recognise the signs, and where to find support.
A holistic approach to diabetes includes taking care of both your body and mind. When you prioritise your mental health, it becomes easier to manage your diabetes, and vice versa.
Together with our healthcare professional team, psychologists and people living with diabetes, we prepared Community Network Programmes to let us guide your diabetes journey. These Programmes include mental health and wellbeing support sessions dedicated to specific types of diabetes and situations. Click below to see how to join and why.
Living with diabetes comes with many challenges, both physical and emotional. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed, frustrated, or even exhausted at times. You are not alone, and support is available to help you through these moments.
Explore the Diabetes Ireland Mental Health and Wellbeing Programmes (COPE, DREAMS and CARE), learn how to recognize the signs and symptoms of diabetes distress and burnout. check how to look after your mind, and see when to look for further support.
Connect, Overcome, Prioritise and Empower.
A unique blend of peer support and practical psychoeducation to help you feel more confident and in control of life with Type 2 Diabetes.
Diabetes Resilience, Emotional and Mental Health Support
A welcoming space for adults newly diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes (within the last three years). A unique blend of peer support and practical psychoeducation, designed to build emotional resilience and confidence in living with Type 1 diabetes.
Care, Community and Resilience for Every T1D Parent
Support for those caring for a child with Type 1 diabetes, with separate programmes for parents/carers of children under and over 12. A space for shared experiences, peer connection, and practical strategies for emotional wellbeing.
You might experience diabetes distress, a common emotional burden of living with and managing diabetes. This can include feelings of:
Some people describe it as feeling burned out. It’s important to acknowledge these feelings and seek support when needed.
Taking small steps to care for your mental health can make a big difference in how you feel and manage your diabetes. Here are a few ideas:
If you’d like more tips on improving your mental well-being,
Diabetes can affect your mental health, and mental health can impact your ability to manage diabetes. Explore the following topics for more information:
Everyone experiences tough times, but if you notice any of the following signs persisting, it may be time to reach out for help:
Having a support system is key to managing your mental health and diabetes. This can include family, friends, healthcare providers, and specialised resources. Here are some starting points:
Always share how you’re feeling with your healthcare provider. They can guide you to the right support.
Access counselling services tailored to people living with diabetes. Find out more here
A free text message service to chat anonymously with someone for support.
Text HELLO to 50808 to chat with a volunteer, anytime.
Information, support and peer groups for people with mild to moderate depression.
Samaritans services are available anytime, for confidential and support.
Head Office – Dublin
19 Northwood House
Northwood Business Campus
Santry, Dublin 9
D09 DH30
Regional Office - South
Enterprise House
36 Mary Street
Cork
T12 H6NH
